Curious about the benefits of getting your car serviced at a dealership? Learn why dealership maintenance and repair might be the best choice for your vehicle.
When you hit the road, you want to know that every part of your vehicle is in peak condition. So when it comes to maintaining your car, where you take it for service is an important decision. The first step towards making that decision is to answer the question, “Should I take my car to the dealership for service, or should I take it to an independent auto shop?”
While the choice is ultimately yours, we believe there are undeniable benefits of dealership service — from specialized expertise and high-quality parts to exceptional customer service. Read on to learn why dealer service is worth it and find answers to frequently asked dealership questions.
It’s common knowledge that dealerships sell and maintain cars, but what if you need more than tire rotations and oil changes? Do dealerships fix cars too? Yes, most dealerships perform repair work and many excel at doing so correctly and efficiently, thanks to the benefits below.
The type of training and expertise dealership technicians have is often leagues above that of your local mechanics. Since dealership mechanics typically undergo rigorous training directly from car manufacturers, they tend to be well-versed in the intricacies of your vehicle’s make and model, from the engine to the electronics. This specialized knowledge can lead to more accurate diagnoses and effective repairs, helping ensure your car runs smoothly.
Dealerships often use original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts, which are made by the company that produced your vehicle. But why is this a benefit? OEM parts can ensure proper fit and function because they are exact replicas of the components originally installed on your car. In contrast, independent mechanics may offer aftermarket parts — those made by a company other than your vehicle’s manufacturer — that can vary in quality and longevity.
If your car is under warranty, certain services or repairs may be covered at your dealership. Additionally, taking your vehicle to a dealership for servicing or repairs can help maintain that warranty, since dealerships are familiar with the specific requirements and can ensure that all work follows manufacturer guidelines. This can reduce the risk of voiding your warranty due to damage caused by improper servicing or unauthorized parts.
Say goodbye to the uncomfortable, dingy chairs and noisy, party-ribboned window ACs of hole-in-the-wall auto repair shops. Dealership service departments often provide amenities like comfortable waiting areas, complimentary beverages, and free Wi-Fi, making your visit as pleasant as possible. Additionally, some dealerships offer loaner cars or shuttle services, so you can continue your day while your vehicle is in the shop.
The benefits of dealership service are nothing to scoff at, but can you take your car to any dealership? For example, could you take your Nissan to a Toyota dealership?
The answer is typically yes; many dealerships are equipped to service any make and model. However, having your car serviced at the dealership that sold it to you or specializes in your car’s brand is typically ideal. These dealerships have technicians with factory training and specific expertise about your vehicle, ensuring the highest level of care possible.
Whether your car is showing signs of trouble or it’s simply time for routine maintenance, you can trust the pros at Ed Hicks Nissan. Our dealership service center is full of experienced technicians who are specifically trained to work on Nissan vehicles. If you’re in Corpus Christi or a surrounding city like Ingleside or Port Aransas, schedule your appointment online today.
